2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 200 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (250 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
